GPU accelerated ML training now available for 3.5 million Windows Subsystem for Linux users

Microsoft has announced the availability of GPU Compute on the WSL 2. WSL allows users to run native Linux command-line tools directly on Windows 10. Short for Windows Subsystem for Linux, WSL runs on over 3.5 million monthly active devices. According to Microsoft, GPU Compute on WSL has always been the most-requested feature.

GPU Compute now available within WSL2

The preview of GPU Compute for WSL2 will initially be compatible with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) workflows. Plus, it will allow WSL users to operate Machine Learning training workloads directly on Windows. At this year’s Build 2020 developer conference, Microsoft revealed its plans to make the preview of GPU Compute available within WSL for Windows Insiders.

In his recent blog post, Clarke Rahrig, Program Manager of Windows AI Platform Team, wrote:

“We are excited to let you know that the preview of GPU compute is now available within WSL 2 to Windows Insiders (Build 20150 or higher)! This preview will initially support artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) workflows, enabling professionals and students alike to run ML training workloads across the breadth of GPUs in the Windows ecosystem.”

It enables the GPU accelerated machine learning (ML) training preview for the WSL 2 and native Windows. Meanwhile, NVIDIA GPU users who use a native Linux environment are advised to set up the NVIDIA CUDA preview in WSL 2. Beginners can set up the TensorFlow with the DirectML backend package. However, this package currently accelerates workflows on AMD and Intel GPUs.

For those familiar with a native Linux environment can run the TensorFlow with DirectML package inside WSL 2. Windows users can set up the TensorFlow with a DirectML package on native Windows.

In addition to the GPU Compute support in WSL 2, Windows 10 Insider Preview Build 20150 also brings a new command wsl –install, which allows you to install WSL with a single command. Microsoft has also added wsl –update command that allows users to manage the Linux kernel version used by WSL 2 distros.

In related news, Windows 10, version 2004 has already extended native support for WSL 2.